Alberta wildfire season prompts permit reminders
Posted Feb 28, 2022 5:12 pm.
Albertans are being reminded that certain permits will be required when wildfire season begins.
As of March 1, 2022, people planning on doing any kind of burning, other than a campfire, in the province’s Forest Protection Area will need specific permission to do so.
Once wildfire season starts on March 1st, you’ll need to get a fire permit if you’re doing any kind of burning in the Forest Protection Area, other than a campfire. Fire permits are free and available from your local forest area office. https://t.co/woraF4Swk3 #ABWildfire pic.twitter.com/U2LDu1jq3S
— Alberta Wildfire (@AlbertaWildfire) February 27, 2022
According to the province, up to 60 per cent of wildfires in 2021 were man-made. The government notes the hazard reaches its peak in the spring when trees and shrubs become more susceptible to dryness and easily burn up due to snow melting away.
During the last season, 1,308 fires burned a total of 52,955 hectares in the Forest Protection Area. This is described by the province as “the geographic areas concerned with the prevention and control of damage to forests from fire, insects, disease and other harmful agents.”
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“Our priority is keeping Albertans and our communities safe. We continue to explore new technology and innovative wildland firefighting programs to evaluate what we need in Alberta’s wildfire management tool kit,” said Nate Horner, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, and Rural Economic Development.
“We’re ready for whatever this summer throws at us.”
The province is urging Albertans to be cautious while enjoying the outdoors, asking them to do their part to prevent the spread of wildfires through the coming months.
To report a wildfire, call 310-FIRE (310-3473) toll-free, from anywhere in Alberta.
